8 Facts About The Senate

1. The Senate has only broken a deadlock once; in 1837, it elected Richard Mentor Johnson.

2. The Senate rules and customs were reformed in the twentieth century, largely in the 1970s.

3. The Senate has several committees that are not considered standing committees.

4. The Senate is the sole judge of a senator's qualifications.

5. The Senate was thus not designed to serve the people of the United States equally.

6. The Senate seemed to bring out the best in Aaron Burr, who as vice president presided over the impeachment trial.

7. The Senate originally met, virtually in secret, on the second floor of Federal Hall in New York City in a room that allowed no spectators.

8. In contrast, members of the Canadian The Senate are appointed by the Governor General upon the recommendation of the Prime Minister of Canada, holding the office until they resign, are removed, or retire at the mandatory age of 75.